KENYA MENTAL HEALTH POLICY

PART 1:
BACKGROUND
1.1 Introduction
The Kenya Mental Health Policy 2015-2030 provides for a framework on
interventions for securing mental health systems reforms in Kenya. This is in line
with the Constitution of Kenya 2010, Vision 2030, the Kenya Health Policy (2014-
2030) and the global commitments. The Constitution of Kenya 2010, in article 43.
(1)(a) provides that “every person has the right to the highest attainable standard of
health, which includes the right to healthcare services” 1 . This necessarily includes
mental health. The 65th World Health Assembly adopted Resolution WHA65.4 on
the global burden of mental disorders and the need for a comprehensive coordinated
response from the health and social sectors at country level. Subsequently, during
the 66th World Health Assembly, Resolution WHA66.8 was adopted. It called on
member states to develop comprehensive mental health action plans in line with
the Global Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020.
1.2 Understanding Mental Health
The World Health Organization (WHO) in its constitution of 1948 defines health
as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the
absence of disease or infirmity” 2 .
Mental health is defined as “a state of well-being whereby individuals recognize
and realize their abilities, are able to cope with the normal stresses of life, work
productively and fruitfully, and make a contribution to their communities” 3 (WHO:
2003). Positive mental health includes emotion, cognition, and social functioning
and coherence. (WHO: 2009).
Mental health is a key determinant of overall health and socio-economic
development. It influences a variety of outcomes for individuals and communities
such as healthier lifestyles; better physical health; improved recovery from illness;
fewer limitations in daily living; higher education attainment; greater productivity,
employment and earnings; better relationships with adults and with children; more
social cohesion and engagement and improved quality of life (WHO: 2009).
1 The constitution of Kenya 2010
2 http://www.who.int/about/definition/en/print.html (Preamble to the Constitution of the World
Health Organization as adopted by the International Health Conference, New York, 19-22 June,
1946; signed on 22 July 1946 by the representatives of 61 States (Official Records of the World
Health Organization, no. 2, p. 100) and entered into force on 7 April 1948.)
3 http://www.who.int/mental_health/media/investing_mnh.pdf (World Health Organization, Investing
in mental health.)
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